Travel Through US History at Gettysburg

Plymouth, for a small group of Americans, is the source of their ancestry in North America. But for most of us, it is Chapter One of the history of the United States and the origin of Thanksgiving. Learn about the Native American tribe that called Plymouth (originally spelled “Plimoth”) home, and discover Web sites that explore the historic landmark.

In Ireland, you’ll find a mix of new and old, including an ancient walled city and a bustling modern capital. Experience the chill of a centuries-old prison, take a cliff-lined hike or soak in the scenery at the birthplace of a revered writer.

Most recently in the spotlight for its enviable restaurants and superb local seafood, Portland presents an attractive range of possibilities for travelers. Few cities can claim to offer Portland's combination of small town atmosphere and fine culture, along with a lively arts district flanked by North Atlantic Ocean scenery.

When approached creatively and with a reverence for history, the practice of transforming abandoned or deteriorating structures into new buildings can have astounding results. Around the world, schools, apartments, breweries and other unlikely entities have evolved from the remains of forgotten brick and mortar, breathing new life into old design.

A road trip along Western Australia’s southern coast will bring travelers to Cape Le Grand National Park, home to secluded beaches, including the remote Hellfire Bay. Wear comfortable walking shoes, pack a fishing pole, and prepare for the lengthy but rewarding coastal walk to the Bay’s glimmering turquoise waters.

There are no stores or businesses on Cayo Costa, so intrepid beach-goers will have to make like pirates exploring a deserted island. Located west of North Fort Myers in the Gulf of Mexico, this Florida state park offers a diverse selection of outdoor activities, but remains quiet and peacefully untouched, accessible only by private boat or passenger ferry.

Noirmoutier, off the west coast of France, touts sunny beaches, bright green grass and blossoming trees. It received the name “black monastery” for the darkly clad monks who inhabited the island in the seventh century. Noirmoutier has been called “a displaced Mediterranean island” because of its whitewashed buildings, fresh cuisine and vivid landscape.

Far removed from the sultry scene on many of Brazil’s beaches near Rio de Janeiro, Jericoacoara is a slow-moving, old-fashioned idyll on the South American country’s northeastern coast. Jeri, as locals affectionately know the beach, did not have electricity until about 20 years ago, and the village still experiences the occasional power outage. Visitors must endure an eight-hour bus ride, followed by a scenic off-road trek before finally arriving at Jeri’s sandy streets. Yes, the village streets are sand.